West Virginia turns 161; Main Street Morgantown celebrates 40 years; and Pride rocks the block
It’s not a birthday without a party.
For West Virginia’s 161st birthday (on June 20), Morgantown is celebrating a few days early with a big party downtown, and everyone is invited.
The celebration runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. today along High Street. Activities include live music, a West Virginia Beer Garden featuring local craft beers and ciders, a Kids’ Zone, food from local restaurants, a Vintage Market and vendors showcasing the works of local artists. And, of course, a cake cutting ceremony. (What’s a birthday party without cake?)
While you’re there celebrating West Virginia’s birthday, don’t forget to wish Main Street Morgantown a happy 40th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, the organization is hosting, sponsoring or partnering on more than 40 events this summer.
Coinciding with the West Virginia Birthday Party, Morgantown Pride will be hosting its Block Party from noon to 5 p.m. down at Hazel Ruby McQuain Park. And when you’re done there, you can check out the Moonlight Market (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.) at the pavilion on Spruce Street.
We love seeing our downtown come to life. Not so long ago, main streets and downtowns were a dying breed, although Morgantown’s has always managed to survive. But it seems like the last few years, it’s really thriving. There are arts and entertainment, a variety of restaurants and local shops to explore. There are beautiful murals adorning the buildings and cozy outdoor patios. And it seems like there’s something good happening all the time.
We very much appreciate the work Main Street Morgantown, the city and local businesses and stakeholders have put into the myriad events happening on and around High Street — from the farmers markets to the Arts Walks to the pop-up events and parties like the ones today.
We hope you make it downtown to celebrate West Virginia’s birthday — and pop on over to the Pride Block Party while you’re at it. After all, it’s not a party without people. Go enjoy some good music, good food, good cake and good company. We’ll see you there!
